Formula Q

atc282

Sorry if this sounds like a silly Q, but how do you know what type of formula to use for the babies? Is it something you can buy in advance or do you have to wait and see what the dr. suggests/ what allergies or needs your babies have?

I plan to BF but didn't know if I was going to be supplementing with formula at all. I am clueless about this stuff! 

Thx

CaliJenny

In the hospital they just started using Enfamil so that's what we continued to use (my milk never came in - long story).  We took enough home of the enfamil from the hospital to last us until DH could get to the store to buy more.  They did great on Enfamil so we never ended up switching. 

See what happens during those first couple of days.  They will give you some at the hospital if you end up supplementing.  You can always have your mom or DH run out while you are still in the hospital to buy more for home. 

Just keep your receipts!! 

Temp159135562506975

most people end up using what they give you at the hospital- which is usually Enfamil or Similac, which ever they get samples of from the companies.

Those two are the basic ones that most babies will do just fine on.  It's only after you try those for a few weeks would you notice if there was an issue and need to switch to a gentle formula, soy, etc.

I wouldn't stress about it. Get some samples when you leave the hospital to have them on hand if you need them.

macchiatto

I had gotten samples of Nestle Good Start, Similac and Enfamil in the mail before the babies even came, so we had all those on hand. When we first supplemented, we used Good Start (natural cultures--the green can) and our pedi told us that was her favorite formula and it also seemed to work best for our boys after we tried some cheaper brands, so we stuck with it. I wouldn't stock up on it in advance though in case your LOs need special formula, but it's helpful to have a few different kinds on hand.

Heather.D

Goldie_Locks_5:

most people end up using what they give you at the hospital- which is usually Enfamil or Similac, which ever they get samples of from the companies.

Those two are the basic ones that most babies will do just fine on.  It's only after you try those for a few weeks would you notice if there was an issue and need to switch to a gentle formula, soy, etc.

I wouldn't stress about it. Get some samples when you leave the hospital to have them on hand if you need them.

 

This exactly.  We started out on regular Enfamil, switched to Gentlease at home due to gas/colic.  What we thought was a stomach bug caused another switch to soy formula as per the doc.  Turned out the babies were allergic to milk and soy so we have been on Similac Alimentum ever since. 

So I wouldn't stress about it now. Just use what the hospital has to start (they will also send you home with stuff).  Then follow your babies cues if you need to switch and you can check with your pedi too.